Sony Unveils CLIE Handheld Device: Revolutionizing Handheld Entertainment

Strategic Insights -

At a launch event on August 30, 2000, Sony Electronics unveiled its latest handheld device, the CLIE Handheld, equipped with digital imaging features and a Palm operating system. This device marks Sony's continued innovation in integrating entertainment with functional electronics. The CLIE Handheld will be available in September for under $400, with pre-orders starting today at www.sony.com/clie.

Key Takeaways:

  • The CLIE Handheld features exclusive digital imaging capabilities, including a slot for Memory Stick media, allowing for virtually unlimited memory expansion.
  • The device comes with 8MB of internal memory and an 8MB Memory Stick, which can be expanded up to 64MB, with higher capacities expected in the future.
  • The CLIE Handheld boasts a Jog Dial navigator, allowing for single-hand, scroll-and-select menu navigation, and a stylus for touch-screen LCD display.
  • Sony has developed various Memory Stick Expansion Modules, including a tiny camera, GPS tracker, Bluetooth connector, and voice recorder, which can be added to the device.
  • The company has also launched a developer's Web site for creating unique applications using Sony's Memory Stick media and Jog Dial navigator.
  • Key specifications of the CLIE Handheld include Palm OS 3.5 software, a lithium-ion rechargeable battery, and a high-contrast, backlit monochrome display with 160 x 160 resolution.
  • The device is designed to be slim and compact, weighing only 4.27 oz and measuring 2.79" (W) x 0.6" (D) x 4.52" (H).
  • The rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides up to 15 days of normal use, and the device can be connected to a PC via high-speed USB connection.
  • PictureGear Pocket software enables users to store, view, and enhance digital images, while gMedia Application provides video player software for playback of video clips.
  • AvantGo Mobile Internet Service provides access to over 400 channels of optimized content and applications, and TrueSync Synchronization Software allows for one-click, multi-point synchronization of calendar, address book, notes, and to-do items.

Statistics:

  • The CLIE Handheld has 8MB of internal memory and an 8MB Memory Stick.
  • The device's battery life is up to 15 days with normal use.
  • Sony offers various Memory Stick Expansion Modules, including a camera, GPS tracker, Bluetooth connector, and voice recorder.
  • The CLIE Handheld's Jog Dial navigator allows for single-hand, scroll-and-select menu navigation.
  • The device comes with 400 channels of optimized content and applications via AvantGo Mobile Internet Service.
  • The rechargeable lithium-ion battery is internal to the device.

Sources:

  • BUSINESS WIRE, "Sony Unveils CLIE Handheld Device"
  • Sony Electronics, "CLIE Handheld Product Information"
  • Palm, Inc., "Palm OS 3.5 Software Information"
  • Sony Computer Products, "PictureGear Pocket Software"
  • Sony Computer Products, "gMedia Application"
  • Sony Computer Products, "AvantGo Mobile Internet Service"
  • Sony Computer Products, "TrueSync Synchronization Software"
  • Palm, Inc., "Palm Powered Trademark Information"